English · Common Verbs
give up
/ɡɪv ʌp/
[/ɡɪv ʌp/]
stop trying; quit
Intermediateverb
Definition
To stop trying to do something, or to surrender a habit or possession.
Example
After failing the exam three times, he refused to give up and finally passed on his fourth attempt.
After failing the exam three times, he refused to give up and finally passed on his fourth attempt.
Etymology
From 'give' (Old English giefan) plus 'up', with the sense of yielding dating to Middle English.
How & Where It’s Used
Extremely common in spoken and written English for quitting efforts, habits, or hope; neutral register.